Following failed mediation earlier today, the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) and Service and Food Workers Union Nga Ringa Tota (SFWU) announced a further round of strike action involving up to 1500 Oceania workers to take place this Wednesday, 7 March.

Union spokesperson Alastair Duncan said the fourth day of mediation saw no movement whatsoever from the company.

“For their part the two unions indicated a genuine willingness to negotiate on our current position if only the company would do the same.

“Oceania has refused to budge and is now trying to bully its staff into accepting less than other aged care workers have already received.”

Last week staff in 20 rest homes took strike action for two hours, receiving strong support from residents and their families. This week staff in 21 facilities will strike.

Wednesday’s strike action will begin at 5.00am and continue until 9.00am. A second strike will be held from 4pm to 6pm. Both unions gave extended notice of the action in order to ensure resident safety.

Oceania staff have been waiting since June 2011 for a pay increase. Oceania has offered nothing for the period from June until March 2012 and 3% for a two year agreement, ending in March 2013.

“This offer equates to one per cent a year spread over three calendar years,” said Alastair Duncan. “Our members are worth much more than that.”